Pakistan and Egypt on Monday launched their joint military exercise “Thunder-II,” a two-week bilateral counter-terrorism drill aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and deepening defence cooperation between the two countries.

The exercise commenced on April 6, 2026, at the Special Operations School in Cherat, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Troops from the Pakistan Army’s Special Services Group (SSG) and the Egyptian Army’s Special Forces are participating in the exercise, which focuses on joint training in counter-terrorism operations.

The Commandant of the Special Operations School, Cherat, attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest.

The ISPR said the exercise is designed to improve professional skills through coordinated training and provide an opportunity to further strengthen longstanding military-to-military relations between the two friendly nations.

Participating troops are expected to benefit from the exchange of operational experience and expertise, particularly in the domain of counter-terrorism.